Debunking the Rumor: Horizon League Dropping to Division II
Recently, a surprising rumor has been circulating that the Horizon League—known for its competitive basketball programs—may be considering a drop to Division II. As far-fetched as it seems, this potential move has garnered attention due to the league's long-standing reputation as one of the top mid-major conferences in college basketball.
Here at NEC Blitz, we have a vested interest in the Horizon League. RMU (Robert Morris University), a football-only member of the NEC, competes in the Horizon League for basketball and other sports. Any change in the Horizon League’s status could have big effects for RMU and its athletics programs. Subsequently, the NEC would be down a football member if the program dropped to Division II.
Given my brief stint at Horizone Roundtable and the connections I've maintained within the Horizon League network, I reached out to several people who would likely be in the know. Unsurprisingly, every person I spoke with hadn’t heard a word about the league dropping to Division II. In fact, the Horizon League’s reputation remains strong, with many considering it one of the top 10 basketball conferences in the nation.
Adding to the intrigue is the fact that Toledo, currently a member of the Mid-American Conference (MAC), is rumored to be exploring options to join the Horizon League if it becomes a football-only school in the Mountain West. This potential move would only bolster the Horizon League’s basketball profile and further cement its standing as a competitive conference. The idea of a strong athletic school like Toledo joining the league seems to run counter to any notion that the Horizon League is in jeopardy of dropping divisions.
To me, this seems like little more than gamesmanship, especially with Toledo's potential entry into the fold. The rumor might come from the MAC to have Toledo reconsider, or even from another conference hoping to poach the Rockets for themselves. If anything, the Horizon League looks to be in a strong position, attracting notable programs and continuing its prominence on the basketball court. It’s highly unlikely that RMU, or any other Horizon League member, would make the dramatic shift to Division II.
In conclusion, this is a rumor we can safely put to bed. With no credible sources supporting the claim, and with moves that would likely strengthen the league’s profile on the horizon, the Horizon League appears to be in a stable and competitive position. RMU fans can rest assured that a drop to Division II is not in the cards anytime soon, and therefore the NEC will remain strong at 8 football members.
